Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has announced a 23-woman final squad for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup due to be held in Australia and New Zealand.
Ellis had initially named 36 players in her preliminary squad three weeks ago, and she trimmed it to 23 for the prestigious tournament.
The much-awaited Women’s World Cup tournament will kick off from July 20 until August 20.
The 2022 WAFCON champions players reported to camp in Johannesburg on 12 June 2023, where they had the chance to impress the three-time CAF Women’s of the Year.
Ellis also announced the three players who will be on standby. The three players are Nthabiseng Majiya, Amogelang Motau and Regirl Ngobeni.
Unfortunately, there are 10 players who were left out of the final squad are Asa Rabalao, Asande Hadebe, Cimone Sauls, Lonathemba Mhlongo, Thubelihle Shamase, Thalea Smidt, Nicole Michael, Sphumelele Shamase, Lelona Daweti and Ntombifikile Ndlovu.
The coach stated that selecting the squad was something difficult since taking over the coaching reigns as the national team coach.
She believes the group of players that she selected from have raised their bar high.
Ellis reckons that this is the group of players that they think can get the job done.
The players will be under the pressure to give their all at the World Cup and make the country proud.
South Africa are in Group G alongside Sweden, Italy and Argentina at the FIFA World Cup.
BANYANA BANYANA FINAL FULL SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS
Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Kebotseng Moletsane,
DEFENDERS
Karabo Dhlamini, Fikile Magama, Lebohang Ramalepe, Tiisetso Makhubela, Noko Matlou, Bambani Mbane, Bongeka Gamede
MIDFIELDERS
Kholosa Biyana, Refiloe Jane, Sibulele Holweni, Linda Motlhalo, Nomvula Kgoale, Robyn Moodaly
FORWARDS
Gabriela Salgado, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Noxolo Cesane, Melinda Kgadiete, Wendy Shongwe, Hildah Magaia, Thembi Kgatlana.
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